Do Bicyclists Have A Right To The Road?

As the frequent target of motorists' aggression, bicyclists are often made to feel like they do not have a right to the road. However, no matter how many times you may be honked at while riding your bike, it is important to remember that under New York law — specifically New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1231 — "[e]very person riding a bicycle [...] upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights [...] applicable to the driver of a vehicle."

But, just because you may have a right to the road doesn't mean there aren't restrictions. In fact, New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1234 specifically states:

Bicyclists must use bike lanes, when available.

If there are no bike lanes, bicyclists must ride near the right curb, on the right shoulder or close to the right edge of the road, except they can move left if they need to avoid unsafe conditions or when preparing to take a left turn.

Bicyclists cannot ride more than two abreast when riding on the road, and they must ride single file when a vehicle passes them.

Bicyclists can ride more than two abreast when riding on the shoulder or a bike lane/path, so long as there is sufficient space to do so.

In addition, bicyclists in New York City need to remember that there may be city rules and regulations that apply to them, beyond the state laws mentioned above.

Despite these restrictions, however, it doesn't change the fact that bicyclists still have a right to the road — no matter what some drivers think.

Injured In A Bike Accident? Questions About Your Rights?

Contact the attorneys at Edelman & Edelman, P.C., today if you have been injured in a bike-related accident. Our lawyers will review your case and help you determine if you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. You don't have to deal with this alone — so let us help. Schedule your free consultation by calling our New York office at 212-943-1200. You can also
reach us online.

3 Reasons To Hire Us

1

We Go All In:With every case we accept, we put all of the firm’s resources behind our pursuit of a positive outcome. We are not afraid to spend whatever amount is necessary to present a winning case on your behalf.

3 Reasons To Hire Us

2

We Hire The Best Experts: We do our homework and find the experts who are doing the most cutting-edge research on your type of injury. We regularly work with medical experts, scientists, people from academia and others.

3 Reasons To Hire Us

3

We Know Our Opposition: In our nearly 60 years in business, we have seen all the tactics opposing attorneys uses. We use proven strategies to match them and act swiftly to overcome any attempt to limit your compensation.

The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With A Lawyer

For construction accidents, personal injury and wrongful conviction claims, you will not find a more qualified legal team than Edelman & Edelman, P.C. We invite you to contact us to schedule a no-obligation initial consultation where you can learn more about how we can help you.

Please call 212-943-1200 or contact us via email to arrange an appointment.